If you've spent time on this site investigating indoor air quality or simply looking for ways to relieve allergy symptoms, you have likely come across specific characteristics we suggest that you should look for in a vacuum cleaner.

For years we have recommended that allergy, asthma and MCS sufferers invest in a quality HEPA vacuum cleaner that features a sealed system. The reason was because only this type of vacuum can truly remove allergens and the ultra fine particles in the air that can trigger asthma attacks or allergic reactions. Researchers in Australia recently published findings confirming what we have long recommended.

In testing 21 different types of vacuum cleaners, researchers concluded that the models tested allowed between 40,000 and 1.2 billion particles to pass completely through the vacuum. The size of the particles in this range was .5 to 20 microns, which means that in a typical household it could include common allergens like pollen, pet dander, and dust.

Some of the models tested include Dyson, Hoover, iRobot, and Sanyo. The ages of the vacuums tested also ranged from 6 months to 22 years old.

An article from WebMD highlighted this study, pointing out other practices and products we have recommended for allergy sufferers, including the use of HEPA filters, microfiber or electrostatic dust cloths and the removal of carpet.

While the testing did not cover a comprehensive sampling of models, there are a few important take aways. First, vacuuming with a traditional vacuum cleaner that lacks a sealed system or HEPA filter will NOT help to remove allergens and fine particles. Secondly, using a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter can improve indoor air quality while cleaning your floors. Lastly, and most importantly, this study highlights the link between vacuuming and its relationship to indoor air quality in the home.

On 6/14/2012 Best Hepa Air Purifier wrote:
This is really amazing information about the importance of hepa vacuum cleaner. There are many doctors who encourage their patient to have vacuum cleaner to avoid any contamination.